Ingredient · Updated
Propylene Glycol Mono-Esters
Found in 1 product
What is Propylene Glycol Mono-Esters?
Propylene Glycol Mono-Esters are a type of compound formed by esterification of propylene glycol with fatty acids. This process involves combining propylene glycol, a synthetic alcohol, with fatty acids derived from vegetable or animal sources.
These esters are used primarily as emulsifiers in food products, helping to blend ingredients that normally do not mix well, such as oil and water. Health evidence suggests they are generally recognized as safe, but their synthetic nature prompts some people to avoid them if seeking natural product options.
When you see Propylene Glycol Mono-Esters on a label, it's often in processed foods like baked goods and dessert mixes, where they improve texture and shelf life.
Commonly found in: baked goods, dessert mixes, confectionery products, snack foods, ice cream
What to watch
- There have been isolated allergic reactions associated with propylene glycol.
Propylene Glycol Mono-Esters are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food products.
Research indicates they are safe for most people, but some may experience sensitivities.
These esters may be vegan if derived from vegetable sources, but animal-derived options exist.
Sources: Code of Federal Regulations Title 21
Scout's take
Industrial emulsifier derived from propylene glycol. Synthetic food additive with no nutritional value.
All 1 product with Propylene Glycol Mono-Esters
Where Propylene Glycol Mono-Esters shows up
- Protein Bars 1 product
Higher-scoring picks without Propylene Glycol Mono-Esters
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Propylene Glycol Mono-Esters, scoring 80 or above.
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